She’s been a member of NYPD since 2016 and was promised prior to joining the force that she would be able to practice her religion without issue. But once on the force she received a rude awakening and realized that she would have to fight to get her day of worship off.

Saint-Jean was told by her bosses that she wasn’t jewish and why would she those days off? “There’s no place for her in the police department.” This was included in her lawsuit as well. Saint-Jean is part of a Christian sect that observes the sabbath from sundown Friday to sundown Saturday.

We’ve reached out to members of the NYPD for comment but have yet to receive aresponse.

The post NYPD Cop Accuses Her Bosses of Religious Discrimination first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

Founders Ryan Wilson & TK Petersen of The Gathering Spot

Lawsuit Seeks Millions in Damages and Return of Business to Former Owners

By Dennis Byron | Investigative Journalist

Atlanta, GA – In a shocking turn of events, Ryan Wilson, the former owner of The Gathering Spot, a popular Atlanta-based private membership club, has filed a lawsuit against Greenwood CEO Ryan Glover and Dr. Paul Judge, alleging fraud and deception. The lawsuit, filed in Fulton County Superior Court, accuses Greenwood of failing to fulfill their sales agreement, specifically pertaining to post payments. Additionally, this lawsuit follows the termination of former CFO T’Keel Petersen by Greenwood.

Pictured left to right: Rapper Killer Mike, Paul Judge, Ryan Glover and Ambassador Andrew Young (Greenwood Founders)

The Gathering Spot, known for its exclusive events, networking opportunities, and dedicated community, became a prominent destination for the city’s elite under Wilson’s ownership. However, the recent lawsuit sheds light on a dispute between Wilson and the current owners of Greenwood, which is headed by Ryan Glover (former owner of Bounce TV) and Dr. Paul Judge.

According to legal documents filed in Fulton County Superior Court, the lawsuit claims that Greenwood has reneged on their obligation to make the necessary post payments as agreed upon in their sales agreement. Wilson, who relinquished ownership of The Gathering Spot to Greenwood, is seeking damages in excess of millions of dollars, along with the return of the business to its former owners.

Further complicating matters, the termination of former CFO TKeel Peterson by Greenwood raises questions about the internal operations and financial stability of the company. Peterson, who reportedly played a vital role in managing the financial affairs of The Gathering Spot, was abruptly removed from his position. The circumstances surrounding his termination remain undisclosed.

Legal experts suggest that this lawsuit could have serious implications for both parties involved. If the court finds in favor of Wilson and determines that Greenwood committed fraud or engaged in deceptive practices, the financial consequences could be significant for Glover and Judge, as well as their associated businesses.

The Gathering Spot, once a thriving hub for entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and creatives in Atlanta, now faces an uncertain future. Many members have expressed concerns over the legal proceedings and the potential impact on the club’s operations. The fallout from this lawsuit could have lasting effects on the reputation and sustainability of The Gathering Spot.

Greenwood, a prominent firm associated with Ryan Glover and Dr. Paul Judge, has gained attention in recent years for its focus on economic empowerment within the Black community. However, this lawsuit casts a shadow on their business practices and threatens to undermine their reputation.

Instagram poster wrote the following @justeldredge

It’s all over…although the doors of TGS are still open the spirit in which it existed will never be the same. Ryan @spotonrw and TK @spotontk built something beautiful that almost everyone in Atlanta has experienced. Maybe you were a member, maybe you attended an event, etc somehow or someway this space was special. 
Like any space or atmosphere the wrong energy can ruin it. It’s no secret I was NOT a fan of Paul Judge @pauljudge becoming a part of The Gathering Spot. His reputation proceeded him and I have yet to meet a founder who worked with him come out better. Where we are today proves his reputation and rumors of his presence is true. 
For that reason is why I was always skeptical of Greenwood. The truth is the entire play was completely deceptive because they took a very emotional time (George Floyd Era) for our people and leveraged our desire for more Black unity as a way to take our money. 
Greenwood is not a black-owned bank. Greenwood is a financial Trojan horse created by Black leaders with influence and trust over our people. If you put your money in it you are banking with Coastal Community Bank a white-owned bank with very little to none Black leadership. Those who own Greenwood are responsible for telling us the truth and explaining why they lied. Unfortunately, Greenwood is owned by Paul Judge, Ryan Glover, and one of our talented and most popular leaders (Killer Mike) @killermike as well as one of our most historic icons (Andrew Young) and they both played a part in this betrayal. 
Now @greenwood which is really a front for a white institution acquired  @thegatheringspots and they are now allegedly replacing the original Black leadership with a white man. Disappointing is an understatement this is a direct attack on Black people, young Black men, and the spirit of entrepreneurship overall. 
The last Fresh Prince pose…a representation that it’s time to move on and prepare for a new chapter. I want to give encouragement to Ryan and TK and thank them for what they did for us. I’m sorry you are going through this but just know the Arc of the Moral Universe is Long but it Bends Toward Justice. 
#TGS

Both parties involved have refrained from making public statements regarding the litigation. While efforts to obtain comments from Greenwood CEO Ryan Glover and Dr. Paul Judge have been unsuccessful, it is expected that they will mount a vigorous defense against the allegations put forth by Wilson.

As the legal proceedings continue, industry insiders and members of the Atlanta community will closely monitor the developments in this high-stakes lawsuit. The outcome has the potential to reshape the landscape of Atlanta’s private membership club scene and will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on all involved parties.

This is a developing story.

Read the lawsuit for yourself here

Disclaimer: This article is a product of investigative journalism and does not represent any final judgments or legal conclusions concerning the ongoing lawsuit.

The post Breaking: Former Owner of Atlanta’s The Gathering Spot Files Lawsuit Against Greenwood Owners for Fraud and Deception first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

Longtime manager of rap star Ludacris, Chaka Zulu along with his legal team headed by former Fulton County prosecutor Gabe Banks, civil rights attorney Mawuli Davis and criminal defense attorney Akil Secret held a press conference to discuss the murder charges filed against Zulu by Atlanta Police Department and why they believe the charges are without merit.

TMZ obtained exclusive footage of the shooting below:

https://share.tmz.com/watch/2022-09-21-092122-chaka-zulu-v2-1488966-021/

The attorneys for music executive Chaka Zulu want police to drop the murder charges against him and they believe the newly released video footage will paint a different picture. Zulu, who’s real name is Ahmed Obafemi, is the longtime manager of Atlanta rapper Ludacris. He was arrested after a fight outside the APT 4B restaurant in June.

Atlanta police said Zulu shot and killed 23-year-old Artez Benton outside the restaurant, where Zulu hosts a special night there on Sundays which is by invite only and you need a password to get into the club. Zulu was also shot in the back that night but has since recovered from his injuries. The begging question for many is why weren’t others charged that night even though the video shows others were involved in the assault as well.

District attorney Fani Willis has not decided to charge Chaka Zulu but we will will be following this story as things develop.

The post Video Alert: Music Executive Chaka Zulu Facing Murder Charges After Defending Himself from Beatdown: Lawyers Speak Out first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

In a new court filing U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York Breon Peace wants a federal judge to rescind the bond of Christopher “DeBoski” Gunn for alleged violations of his pre-release conditions which centers around alleged use of marijuana while on bond, alleged intimidation of a witness or victim in his case and leaving his home while on bond. The motion interestingly references a video in which Gunn posted to his youtube channel where he claims an “informant” is threatening his life. While we can’t confirm the voice on the video is in fact an informant but it does appear the person on the video has threatened to shoot Dunn and was asking the person in the video about having access to the defendant’s address.

Listen to the video below:

Apparently from the court filing it does appear that there is some type of connection with the voice in the video and the government’s case against Christopher Gunn otherwise why would this not be treated as a potential crime? The hearing is scheduled for 2:00pm today and we will be updating the story at the conclusion of the hearing.

The post Breaking! Federal Prosecutors Are Asking A judge to Revoke Bond of #RKelly “Super Fan” first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

By: Gabrielle Taite

Many individuals have taken to the streets of downtown Minneapolis in order to protest the police killing of yet another Black man.

22-year-old, Amir Locke, was sleeping on the couch early Wednesday morning, February 2, when police conducted a “no-knock” search warrant, according to The Guardian. This allows police to enter private property without first alerting or announcing their presence to the occupants. This particular warrant was in relation to a homicide investigation led by detectives from the nearby Saint Paul Police Department. However, Locke was not named in the warrant and was not a suspect in the case being investigated. A lawyer from Locke’s family has since stated that he was in the apartment staying with his cousin. Minneapolis police have even acknowledged that it was unclear whether or not he was connected to that particular investigation.

Police body cam footage shows officers entering into the apartment, announcing their presence only after they are inside. An officer can be seen kicking the couch Locke was sleeping on, screaming at him to wake up. Wrapped in a blanket and seemingly confused, Locke can be seen moving around where a handgun becomes visible. Moments later, the officer who has now been identified as Mark Hanneman fired three fatal shots, killing Locke who was still wrapped up in his blanket.

Hundreds of protestors gathered together at Government Plaza on Saturday to express their dismay and demand racial justice, stating that Locke had a right to possess a weapon in his own home and was not even given a chance by officers to disarm himself. Citizens gathered together in below-freezing temperatures to show their support and state their demands which included: the resignation of the mayor and police chief, the arrest of officers involved and a ban on no-knock warrants. Mayor Jacob Frey eventually made the decision to put a temporary ban on no-knock search warrants, adding that he wanted to ensure the safety of both the public and officers.

Since the tragic incident, Hanneman has been placed on paid leave just as many other officers before him who have been accused of unlawful killings of citizens.

This is not the first time that Minneapolis police officers have come under fire for cases such as this. Earlier in 2020, George Floyd, an unarmed Black man, was killed by ex-officer, Derek Chauvin, who knelt on Floyd’s neck for more than nine minutes during an arrest where authorities suspected him of trying to pass a counterfeit $20 bill. As far as no-knock killings, Breonna Taylor was killed in March of 2020 when Louisville police officers raided her apartment, looking for two people suspected of selling drugs, neither of whom were Taylor. Officers fired more than 20 rounds into the apartment, with Taylor being shot at least eight times.

Hennepin County Judge Peter Cahill, who signed the no-knock warrant that led to the killing of Locke, even presided over the trial of ex police officer, Derek Chauvin, according to several Minnesota outlets.

Many are left outraged as racial injustices such as these happen far too often at the hand of police who have sworn to protect and serve our communities. The family of Amir Locke is being represented by civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who has previously worked with other families of police shooting victims such as the family of George Floyd.

The post Police Shooting of a Minneapolis Man Sparks Outrage Against Many first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

With the spread of the Omicron virus that has made its way to America, NY Governor Kathy Hochul has taken measures to make it a state crime to make or produce fraudulent vaccination cards. This comes as as high-ranking NYPD cops have been caught doing just that.

This newest legislation that is intended to combat the spread of the virus was signed into law on Wednesday which included other pandemic-response related measures, makes the falsification of such documents a class A misdemeanor. The Feds have already made such related type of crimes a felony.

The new law also makes it a felony to access a computer to tamper with COVID-19 records so yes hacking into digital records or accessing them for the purpose of committing a crime is punishable by a prison sentence in New York State.

“We need to make sure we learn the lessons of the pandemic so we don’t make the same mistakes twice,” Hochul said in a statement after signing the bills. “These new laws will help us improve our response to the pandemic now, crack down on fraudulent use of vaccination records, and help us better understand the areas of improvement we need to make to our health care system so we can be even more prepared down the road.”

Vaccination Fraud Within New York City’s Police Department

Earlier this month, there were reports that EMS employees were selling fake vaccination cards to city workers after Mayor Bill de Blasio issued a mandate requiring all city employees to be vaccinated as a condition of keeping their jobs.

A police lieutenant and captain was stripped of their badges and guns and placed on desk duty after someone snitched on them for using bogus vaccination cards. Prior to that discovery, Police commissioner Shea told reporters in a statement that he knew of “zero’ evidence of cops committing these types of crimes. Those cops have been identified as Lt. Joseph Marsella and Capt. Desmond Morales. They both are currently under investigation by NYPD’s internal affairs.

This is a developing story.

The post NY Governor Is Not Playing! Makes Fake Vaccination Cards A Crime first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

After accepting responsibility for federal payroll tax evasion, Shanga Hankerson, the son of legendary superstar Gladys Knight has agreed to a 2-year plea deal for not paying the government their monies. At the time of his arrest, Hankerson had owed the government in excess of 1 million dollars in back taxes and feds decided to close down all three of his restaurants that bare his famous mother’s name.

 “Hankerson willfully disregarded his tax obligations for many years,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Kurt R. Erskine.  “Payroll taxes fund social insurance programs, including Social Security and Medicare, and are a large source of revenue for the federal government.  Employers who fail to comply with their legal obligations will be held accountable.”

          “While ownership of a well-known restaurant in our community has its perks, it also comes with great responsibility,” said IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge James E. Dorsey. “Paying taxes is a way to give back to the community, but unfortunately Hankerson chose to use those funds for other means.  This sentencing emphasizes that all employers, big and small, have equal responsibility to collect, report, and pay over their payroll taxes.”

          According to Acting U.S. Attorney Erskine, the charges and other information presented in court: In 1997, Hankerson opened his first restaurant, Gladys Knight’s Chicken and Waffles, in Atlanta.  Over the next several years, Hankerson expanded the concept to at least three other locations in northern Georgia and Washington, D.C.  Hankerson was the sole owner of the businesses that operated the restaurants.

          As an employer, Hankerson’s companies were required to withhold from employees’ gross pay Federal Insurance Contributions Act (“FICA”) taxes, which represent Social Security and Medicare taxes, and federal income taxes.  Collectively, these withheld taxes are referred to as “payroll taxes.”  Specifically, employers are required to file, one month after the conclusion of the calendar quarter, an Employer’s Quarterly Federal Tax Return, setting forth the amount of payroll taxes due. 

          An individual is responsible for collecting, accounting for, and paying over the payroll taxes if he or she has the authority required to exercise significant control over the employer’s financial affairs.  As the sole owner, Hankerson was the responsible person, and he had the responsibility to collect, truthfully account for, and pay over payroll taxes due.  From at least 2012 to 2016, Hankerson failed to fully remit over $1 million in payroll taxes due.  

          Shanga Hankerson, 45, of Atlanta, Georgia, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Michael L. Brown to serve two years in prison, one year of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution of $1,039,310.65.  Hankerson was convicted on July 21, 2021, after he pleaded guilty.

Many had thought the singer herself owned the restaurant but it was later revealed during a lawsuit where she sued her son to remove her name off of all business records as she was only the pitch person for his brand. Former employees later told federal investigators that Hankerson used the money to pay for wild sex parties and illicit drugs.

The post Gladys Knight Son Has To Take Midnight Train to Federal Jail first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

Pennsylvania’s highest court threw out Bill Cosby’s sexual assault conviction and opened the way for his immediate release from prison Wednesday in a stunning reversal of fortune for the comedian once known as “America’s Dad,” ruling that the prosecutor who brought the case was bound by his predecessor’s agreement not to charge Cosby.

Cosby, 83, has served more than two years of a three-to 10-year sentence after being found guilty of drugging and violating Temple University sports administrator Andrea Constand at his suburban Philadelphia home in 2004. He was the first celebrity tried and convicted in the #MeToo era.

Cosby was arrested in 2015, when a district attorney armed with newly unsealed evidence — the comic’s damaging deposition testimony in a lawsuit brought by Constand — brought charges against him days before the 12-year statute of limitations ran out.

But the Pennsylvania Supreme Court said that District Attorney Kevin Steele, who made the decision to arrest Cosby, was obligated to stand by his predecessor’s promise not to charge Cosby. There was no evidence that promise was ever put in writing.

Justice David Wecht, writing for a split court, said Cosby had relied on the former prosecutor’s decision not to charge him when the comedian later gave his potentially incriminating testimony in the Constand’s civil case.

The court said that overturning the conviction, and barring any further prosecution, “is the only remedy that comports with society’s reasonable expectations of its elected prosecutors and our criminal justice system.”

Cosby has always maintained his innocence and said that he would not participate in any sexual predator courses even if he had to spend his entire 3-10 year sentence behind bars. The court also pointed out that prosecutors should have never allowed others to have testified against the comedian when there was no way of vetting them for truthfulness.

Cosby should be walking out of a Pennsylvania within the next 2 hours according to our sources.

Bill Cosby was viewed as “America’s Dad” prior to his unjust conviction and he is estimated to have a net worth of 400 million dollars and was also rumored to have offered to buy a major television network prior to his conviction.

This is a developing story.

Source: AP/TMZ

The post Free at Last: Pennsylvania Supreme Court Ordered Bill Cosby Released Due to Wrongful Conviction first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

Cardi B is being sued once again for the artwork on her Gangsta B*tch Music Vol. 1 mixtape.

On Thursday, the U.S. District Court Judge Cormac Carney rejected Cardi’s motion to dismiss the lawsuit. The artwork allegedly violates a man named Kevin Brophy Jr.’s right of publicity and portrays him in a false light. The man on the artwork can be seen with his head in between Cardi’s legs.

The judge ruled that Brophy has a plausible claim for using his likeliness without consent, as most people recognize the Plaintiff by his tiger snake tattoo, which is the same artwork shown on the cover.

“Defendants argue that Plaintiff’s claim fails because he fails to allege that his face was visible or his name was used,” Carney wrote in the order. “Defendants, however, cite no authority for the proposition that a commercial misappropriation claim requires the use of the plaintiff’s face or name. Plaintiff here alleges that his tattoo is part of his likeness because it is unique and distinctive.”

Cardi responded, stating that this lawsuit is disruptive to her life since she is busy with other priorities.

“I’m really upset because I really have to be with my kid. All because of some bullsh*t trying to get money and then $5,000,000,” she stated in her deposition.  “Are you f**king kidding me? That mixtape didn’t even make, not even a million dollars. I got real lawsuits with real sh*t, and I got to deal with this bullsh*t. This is four hours long taking away from my time, my job, my motherhood.”

See the artwork for Cardi’s mixtape below.

The post Cardi B Faces Yet Another Lawsuit first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

When all else fails clout chase off a famous celebrity which seems to be the case with blogger Latasha Kebe aka Tasha K. In an amended court-filing by the troubled blogger, she alleges that Cardi B assaulted her even though the two have never met. As comical as the claim sounds, Tasha K. believes in her mind that anyone who opposes her cyber-bullying is a threat to her.

Cardi sued Latasha Kebe and Starmarie Jones earlier this year after the blogger accused her of being “a drug abusing prostitute with an STD”, according to TMZ. Tasha followed by countersuing the rapper for slander, however she is now claiming that Cardi B caused harm to her unborn child.

Latasha claims that the Money rapper and her former roommate, Skeemo, made threats against her, which included violent messages on social media. Additionally, she says Cardi B told gang members to “handle her” which she took as a threat. As a result, Tasha K, who allegedly was in the first trimester of her “high-risk pregnancy” at the time, was put on mandatory bedrest by her doctors, according to TMZ.

She is now claiming that her unborn child has been affected. It is interesting that the blogger lady would have the audacity to make such a claim when she in fact was the one taunting and harassing the rapper via her social platforms with defamatory claims herself.

However, documents state that Cardi B and Latasha were not even in the same room when she and Skeemo allegedly shared “violent” messages about her on the internet. Latasha claims that her fear drove her to call the FBI, but says the agency only suggested she move if she felt so threatened.

Our sources stated that the blogger and her family actually moved earlier because of an unrelated issue and believes the blogger lady is only making these claims now to “trend the internet.” In a previous filing by Cardi B’s legal team, they referred a video Tasha K released with her and video blogger Lovely T, (watch video at the 4:52:00 mark here)where Tasha K is overheard saying that she knew that the claims Starmarie made about Cardi were probably lies but she did it because she wanted to trend the internet (making a video go viral) to gain more views, subscribers, and monetary gain for the story. Cardi’s team believe this is just further proof that the blogger’s counter-suit will be dismissed.

Cardi’s team released an official statement:

“Tasha K’s counterclaims are completely frivolous and have no merit. Tasha K clearly seems to think that this lawsuit and the courts are her social media channel where she thinks that she can say anything she wants, without regard for the truth, harassing Cardi and her friends to try to gain readers to her blogs at the expense of Cardi. This is failing–Tasha’s owns words in interviews and documents show that her claims are completely false.  Cardi fully expects that Tasha K’s claims will be dismissed, and that at the end of this case, Cardi will be victorious and Tasha K will be held accountable for the blatantly false things she has said, written and posted, about Cardi, that Tasha K knew were false.”

As far as Kebe’s claim of fear or threats she alleges were made by gang members, Cardi’s team contends that Kebe herself has gang affiliations. It is a known fact that Kebe has directed a former notorious blood gang-member Yovani Broadus aka Jovi Beauty to harass a member of the media.

Latasha Kebe has also been accused of cyberbullying book author Alana Brown.

This is a developing story.

The post Blogger Tasha K Makes Frivolous Filing in Lawsuit Against Cardi B; Rapper Contends She’s Clout Chasing first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

Last week, a Virginia District Court judge issued a Protective Order against video blogger Latasha Transrina Kebe aka Latasha Transrina Howard aka TashaK who operates a Youtube Channel UnwinewithTashaK. According to reporting, veteran journalist Dennis Byron was working on an in-depth investigative story involving cyber-bullying and Latasha Kebe (also known as TashaK) was the subject of his reporting.

During the course of his investigation, Byron interviewed several of her former neighbors. One particular neighbor told Mr. Byron that she was a friend of Tasha K and wouldn’t be interested in participating in the story. Other neighbors fully cooperated. Once Ms. Kebe learned that there was a Investigative reporter asking questions about her, she concocted  a story suggesting Byron’s sole purpose of being there was to stalk her daughter.

On March 29th, Kebe broadcasted live on her Instagram a false and reckless story telling her 54,000 followers that Mr. Byron came to her old neighborhood a total of three (3) times asking about her child.

According to Mr. Byron, his sole purpose for visiting her old neighborhood was because he was working on a story regarding cyber-bullying and Ms. Kebe was the subject of his investigative reporting.

Mr. Byron believes the only reason why Ms. Kebe made up this elaborate story was to garner sympathy from her followers and to interfere with his investigation into her online cyberbullying behavior.

In another posting by Tasha K, she threatens to shoot Mr. Byron “one to the head and one to the heart” if he comes to her home. Mr. Byron viewed this as a direct threat on his life and took appropriate action.

On the same day, Mr. Byron received a call from an individual claiming to be the father of Latasha Kebe. The caller stated that he, along with his people, would be paying Mr. Byron a visit in Atlanta. When Mr. Byron asked “why would you be paying me a visit,” the caller angrily responded that “You’ll find out once I get there.”

Mr. Byron took that as a direct threat.

Mr. Byron has audio recordings supporting that he was only in her old neighborhood for approximately 15 minutes and never asked a single question about her child (or any other children).

During those false and malicious claims, Kebe directed her instagram followers to go to Mr. Byron’s instagram page and download images of him to make defamatory posts about him.

From Mr. Byron’s investigation, Kebe has a history of bullying people on her various social media platforms for one reason or another.

In one particular incident, Kebe called a Pennsylvania hospital pretending to be the cousin of a woman who had just given birth. Kebe claimed the new mother was the mistress of celebrity talk show host Wendy Williams’ husband, Kevin Hunter. Kebe broadcasted the legal name of the woman and the hospital location of the newborn in a video viewed more than half a million times.  Kebe claimed she was outing Kevin Hunter for allegedly having an affair with the new mother and fathering a child.

Byron believes that recording alone proves Kebe will go to great lengths to concoct a story just for views, likes and monetary gain. Kebe has also been accused of unlawfully using images belonging to photographers without their consent triggering copyright claims on Youtube, facebook and instagram while monetizing the illegally obtained photos and videos.

In another incident Kebe accused Atlanta’s Celebrity Stylist Kash Howard of being a part of a “pedophilia sex ring” involving singer R. Kelly. Kebe labeled Ms. Howard a “transitional madam” causing pain and suffering to her. We interviewed Howard on numerous occasions and she vehemently denies knowing of any illegal activities committed by the singer and pointed out that she has styled many celebrities over the course of 10 years and operates a successful clothing boutique in the Atlanta area.

According to our investigation, Kebe operates several Instagram pages with the handles “winogang” “winogang2” “winogang3” for the sole purpose of having her members stalk, harass, and intimidate the people she is blogging about on her infamous YouTube channel “UnwinewithTashaK.” Because her channel is being monetized, and she is imploring others to engage in possible criminal activity, there is a need to carefully examine Kebe’s business practices.

Under Georgia law, O.C.G.A 16-5-3 (1), criminal gang activity means the commission, attempted commission, conspiracy to commit, or solicitation, coercion, or intimidation of another person to commit any of the following offenses: racketeering, stalking, rape, aggravated sexual battery, aiding or encouraging a child to escape from custody, criminal trespass, criminal damage to property and any other criminal offense that involves the violence, possession/use of a weapon.

What is Criminal Gang Activity Under Georgia Law?

Under Georgia law, O.C.G.A 16-5-3 (1), criminal gang activity means the commission, attempted commission, conspiracy to commit, or solicitation, coercion, or intimidation of another person to commit any of the following offenses: racketeering, stalking, rape, aggravated sexual battery, aiding or encouraging a child to escape from custody, criminal trespass, criminal damage to property and any other criminal offense that involves the violence, possession/use of a weapon.

What Are Georgia’s Laws on Criminal Gang Activity?

Georgia’s criminal gang activity laws are set out under O.C.G.A. 16-15-4 and makes it unlawful for:

• A person employed or associated with a criminal street gang to conduct or participate in criminal gang activity through the commission of a crime;
• Any person to commit an offense with the intent to obtain or earn membership or maintain or increase his or her status or position in a criminal street gang;
• Any person to acquire or maintain, directly or indirectly, through criminal gang activity or proceeds derived from any interest in or control of any real or personal property of any nature, including money;
• Any person who occupies a position of organizer, a supervisory position, or any other position of management or leadership with regard to a criminal street gang to engage in, directly or indirectly, or conspire to engage in criminal gang activity;
• Any person to cause, encourage, solicit, recruit, or coerce another to become a member or associate of a criminal street gang, to participate in a criminal street gang, or to conduct or participate in a criminal gang activity;
• Any person to communicate, directly or indirectly, with another any threat of injury or damage to the person or property of the other person or of any associate or relative of the other person with the intent to deter such person from assisting a member or associate of a criminal street gang to withdraw from such criminal street gang;
• Any person to communicate, directly, with another any threat or injury or damage to the person or property of the other person or of any associate or relative of the other person with the intent to punish or retaliate against such person for refusing to or encouraging another to refuse to become or obtain the status of a member or associate of a criminal street gang;
• Any person to communicate, directly, with another any threat or injury or damage to the person or property of the other person or of any associate or relative of the other person with the intent to punish or retaliate against such person for providing statements or testimony against criminal street gangs or any criminal street gang; and,
• Any person to communicate, directly, with another any threat or injury or damage to the person or property of the other person or of any associate or relative of the other person with the intent to intimidate, deter, or prevent such person from communicating to any law enforcement or corrections officer, prosecuting attorney, or judge information relating to criminal street gangs, criminal street gang members or associates, or criminal gang activity.

For Mr. Byron’s part, he wants Latasha Kebe aka #TashaK to desist from her reckless behavior as she has caused unnecessary stress to him and his family and he wants her held accountable for her actions. When asked what did he want to see happen to all those who have attacked him on social media, Byron stated “No one, especially a professional reporter doing his job, should be attacked or intimidated by any individual because they are uncomfortable with being the subject of a story.” Mr. Byron points out that he doesn’t know Kebe personally nor holds any malice for her. As a member of the press, he has a right and responsibility to thoroughly investigate stories so that the real facts are known and not contribute to fake news reporting.

We also asked Mr. Byron what role he feels platforms like Youtube, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter should play in combating cyber-bullying by their members, and he stated “ I recognizes that there is a fundamental right of the 1st Amendment (as it relates to freedom of speech) but those freedoms don’t guarantee an individual the right to bully or harass others for their self-gratification. People have committed suicide, and done other horrible things, because they have been bullied by people over the internet.

These companies have a responsibility to remove and ban individuals who don’t comply with the standards that provide a safe environment for all to enjoy. If companies are only concerned with impacting their bottom-line at the expense of others then the courts should be the place to hold these companies and individuals responsible.”

Instagram has deleted two of TashaK’s pages “TheWineBloggerLady” and “UnwinewithTashaK” (for possible harassment, cyber-bullying, and copyright claims).

On April 4th, Kebe was served with a criminal Protective Order by Gwinnett County Sheriffs and ordered to have no direct or indirect contact with Mr. Byron or his family members. In addition, she was ordered to surrender any firearms she may have in her possession.

Kebe is also being sued by rap superstar Cardi B. for the defamatory statements she made about her on her infamous youtube channel and we have also been told that there are several other lawsuits being filed against her business and her personally.

We have reached out to Youtube, Instagram and Facebook for an official statement. This is a developing story.

The post Breaking: Video Blogger Tasha K Threatens to Kill Investigative Reporter, Judge Issues Protective Order: “Surrender Firearms!” first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

Judge Hachett didn’t pull any punches when she was asked what her thoughts were when she saw like many others the assault of a high school teenager while in a classroom being manhandled by School safety officer Ben Fields who has since been terminated. She stated that she believed that if not for the efforts of courageous students, the incident would have never came to light. The killing of motorist Walter Scott was also a real issue for her as she explains in this video. This is part 1 of a 3-part interview so we hope you enjoy.

Video credit: Dennis Byron

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The post Exclusive Interview: Judge Glenda Hachett Speaks on Racism, South Carolina Student Assault and Walter Scott Murder first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

In a high-profile custody trial that involved 3-time Grammy winner Christopher “Ludacris” Bridges, a Fulton County Georgia judge has issued her ruling that gave the celebrity primary physical custody while Tamika Fuller shares joint custody with the rapper. Judge Doris Downs decided in her ruling that Christopher “Ludacris” Bridges has the financial wherewithal to better care for their daughter Cai Bella Bridges. Judge Downs was very careful to point out that her decision didn’t mean that either party was a bad parent however Bridges has demonstrated that he could be the best caregiver for daughter Cai Bella Bridges.

Judge Downs however departed from the Guardian Ad Litem recommendation where she stated in her report that baby Cai should remain with the mother until she was 5-years of age. That decision by the judge might be a reason why mother Tamika Fuller doesn’t fully support the ruling.

In an official statement given exclusively to Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine by Fuller’s attorney Lisa West, she stated the following:

“While Ms. Fuller is joyous that the court granted her joint legal custody and joint physical custody of the parties’ 13-month-old daughter, she is devastated (and quite perplexed) that the court designated Mr. Bridges as primary physical custodian. Despite this unexpected result, Ms. Fuller will continue to focus on her role as mother to their precious daughter and as co-parent to Mr. Bridges and awaits the time that the pain of today’s decision subsides. She expresses her gratitude to all of those who have supported her during this difficult period.”

We asked attorney West whether she intended to file an appeal of the judge’s ruling and she stated that would be a decision she would have to discuss with her client.

Check back soon as we release some of the witnesses video testimony which will include rapper/actor Ludacris

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The post Exclusive Footage: Judge Issues Official Ruling in Ludacris Custody Battle..Everyone’s A Winner! first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

Remaining group members, Chilli and T-Boz, have already admitted that they have started recording songs for an untitled album. The singers expressed that while they have positive experiences working with labels to create their music, the group wanted to keep complete creative control over this album. TLC decided that the best way to make this project happen is with the help of their millions of fans.

In the 90’s the trio were arguably one of the most popular and successful groups of their time. TLC won 5 Grammy awards, had ten Top 10 US singles, and four multi-platinum albums. In 2002, the group suffered the loss of member Lisa “Left-Eye” Lopes who was fatally injured in a car accident in Honduras. Since then the duo has been rather quiet but has dropped a song here and there.

Chilli and T-Boz are asking fans to donate $150,000 to help with the cost of making the album and have already received over $105,000 in donations. They made it possible so that fans who donate at least five dollars will receive a token of appreciation. Fans can receive a bevy of gifts ranging from going to the movies with either Chilli or  T-Boz, to a slumber party in LA with TLC, to attending an intense workout session with Chilli.

Fans looking to donate can do so here. The album hasn’t received an official release date but the estimated delivery for some of the perks for donating is listed for September 2015.

The post Legendary Group TLC Needs Your Help to Fund Their Next Album first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

Reporting by: Dennis Byron

The defense team for Gary Bradford aka Eldorado Red, Deandre Washington and Maurice Conner will be presenting their case to the jury in hopes of convincing them to believe that evidence that was presented to them by the prosecution for over a week is not only false but may prove that Decensae White (the former basketball star) and not Gary Bradford was the one who ordered the hit on Melvin Vernell, III aka Lil Phat. According to White’s testimony, he was the one who had taken a loss when his drugs were stolen allegedly by rapper Lil Phat.

Not only had White taken a financial loss because of the theft of his drugs, he appeared to have had more of a motivation to get revenge against Lil Phat since it would have sent a bad message to those who might see White’s drug business as a target for future robberies according his testimony.

What makes matters even worse for the basketball star is the fact that he repeatedly tracked Lil Phat to various locations throughout the day leading up to his death.

Meanwhile, the prosecution is attempting to show the jury that their evidence in the case points to Eldorado Red because of his allege ties to a street gang known as BGM, a sect of the bloods organization.

The defense team is being led by famed criminal defense attorney David Wolfe. Mr. Wolfe’s name rings bells in courtrooms throughout Georgia not just because he is the founding member of The Innocence Project but because he has successfully assisted in the acquittal of Baltimore Ravens star Ray Lewis and Reginald Oakley and Clarence Harrison, a Decatur, Georgia man who was convicted of a rape but it was later determined  by DNA evidence that the man was innocent. Check out exclusive video coverage of the trial below and visit our video channel to see additional footage as well.

The post [Exclusive Coverage] More Testimony Today Suggests Former Basketball Star Decensae White Masterminded The Hit on Lil Phat Via Court Ordered Wiretaps first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

Love Dollhouse consist of three very talented young women from Detroit who may just be the industry’s next up and coming girl group. It’s been awhile since we saw anything that compared to TLC or Destiny’s Child, but Love Dollhouse members Ryan, Jasmine, and Chelsea are making their claim for fame and the sky is the limit for these young ladies.

The ladies new track “Can I” is a smooth slice of timeless pop and R&B that will appeal to listeners of all ages. “Can I” is a perfect introduction to Love Dollhouse’s lush, elastic harmonies, slinky hooks, and soulful grooves. Lyrically, the song upends the male/female dynamic by putting the girl in the power seat. “The girl has her eye on a guy, and she’s flirting, telling him to come on over to her side,” says Ryan.  Chelsea adds, “She’s saying, ‘I like you. I’m pursuing you,’ which we feel has a bigger message. We’re telling girls that it’s okay to take initiative. It’s okay to be free and express your love, and still be classy.”

The girls come with a message of strength, female empowerment, and positivity and it has paid off with their recent signing to Steve Rifkind and Russell Simmons’ All Def Music label and Capitol Records.  “I think I speak for all three of us when I say that we feel pure bliss and relief,” says Chelsea. “Leading up to this moment, we’ve all been through a lot. We’ve had setbacks, on our own and as a group, and it’s going to be so liberating and rewarding to see all the hard work pay off,” says Ryan and Jasmine. 

Check out the “Can I” video by Love Dollhouse below and be sure to share your thoughts. 

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The post [Exclusive New Music Alert] Love Doll House Next Big Female Group Sensation first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

By: Adriene Morton

Whether you were out in the audience amongst millions in L.A.’s Nokia theatre, or watching from home stapled to that cozy couch of yours, we can all agree that Sunday’s American Music Awards shocked millions as TLC showed up and showed out!

The famous group did damage in the 90’s, as they set the bar sky high for female artists in the game and gradually became admirable figures in the industry who thousands of fans commended and looked up to. The group experienced substantial success, releasing their Ooooooohhh… On the TLC Tip album, which sold over 6 million copies worldwide, and knocked the socks off of the charts as their sophomore album CrazySexyCool struck gold and surpassed their debut album.

We all got a big surprise Sunday night as we saw TLC’s Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins and Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas take the stage with special guest, Lil Mama, who filled in for former member Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, to perform their timeless jam, “Waterfalls”. The famous track stands in place alongside the several other classics that the group released such as “No Scrubs”, “Creep”, and “What About Your Friends”. Who said TLC lost it? At the speed they were going with that kickass choreography? 13 years out of the game put them right where they need to be, back in full effect! The three hit the stage and rocked the crowd with their jaw-dropping performance, winning their first AMA, and I’m sure it won’t be their last! Great job ladies! If you didn’t catch it, tune in and sit front row to their performance here on HipHopEnquirer!

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The post TLC Takes The Stage With Special Guest Lil Mama At The American Music Awards! first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

J. Cole can’t wait until June 18th when he drops his sophomore release Born Sinner and today unveils the second single “Crooked Smile.”

With T- Boz and Chilli serenading the hook, the Roc nation MC spits a few more jewels on being true and encourages the youth to be happy being themselves.

You can kind of call it a 2013 version of “UnPretty” as Cole prepares to have the summer on lock.

Peep the track and also catch Cole on his “Dollar & A Dream Tour here.

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The cast for the 90’s crazy, sexy, and cool TLC trio is completed. Actress Keke Palmer will portray band member Rozonda “Chili” Thomas, Lil Mama will play Lisa “Lefteye” Lopes, and Drew Sidora (The Game) will be playing Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins. The full length movie will explore the Grammy award winning trio’s rise to fame. We will see the development of their 1994 groundbreaking CrazySexyCool groundbreaking album, which sold 22 million albums worldwide and made them one of the greatest female groups of all time. The film is directed by Charles Stone III (known for directing Drumline and Paid in Full) and was written by screenwriter Kate Lanier (Set it Off and Beauty Shop). Production begins next month in Atlanta.

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The post VH1 Announces Cast for TLC Biopic Starring Lil Mama, Keke Palmer, and Drew Sidora first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

Don’t call it a comeback, I’ve been here for years. That must be Lil Mama’s motto as she added a new acting role to her resume.

The 23-year old who popped on the scene a few years back with the catchy “Lip Gloss” single and then turned celebrity judge on America’s Best Dance Crew has been cast to play the late Lisa “Lefy Eye” Lopes in an upcoming Vh1 biopic on R&B group TLC.

Lopes, 1/3 of the trailblazing group TLC, tragically died in a car accident in 2002 in Honduras.

MC Lyte spilled the beans on the project with HipHollywood stating,

“I’m going to put a little bit of my concentration and focus on helping to uplift a sister who is talented, smart and witty who just had her chances cut too short and that’s Lil Mama because she is a talented young lady. So I want to see her do some beautiful things and I don’t know if I’m supposed to say but I will… She just got the role of Left Eye in TLC’s new movie so I am so excited for her.”

Congratulations Lil Mama and quiet as kept, her 2008 debut album VYP (Voice of the Young People) was a real good project though highly slept on and contained many influences from TLC with her singing and rapping throughout the project.

Hopefully Jay-Z and Alicia Keys… and the rest of the world can now finally forgive her for her remix version of “Empire State Of Mind” at the 2008 VMAs.

TLC’s surviving members Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins and Rozanda “Chilli” Thomas are also executive producing and serving as consultants on the project which is in pre-production.

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The post Lil Mama To Play Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes In TLC [Biopic] first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

Even after years of not releasing any new music, it sounds like T-Boz of TLC is proving that she’s still got the voice. Just one day after the season finale of her TLC reality show, “Totally T-Boz”, the singer/mother turned reality star released a new track titled, “Champion” and we’re actually feeling it.

“Champion” is more than just a title for T-Boz though, as she continues to battle against sickle cell and in the season finale of her show, finds out that a brain tumor she feared was starting to form again, actually wasn’t. So she definitely has reasons to feel like a Champion right about now.

“Champion” is available for download on iTunes and all proceeds will go to support sickle cell and leukemia research. Check out the track below and a clip from the season finale of “Totally T-Boz”.

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The post New Music: T-Boz Is Back with “Champion” first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

In a recent interview with Soledad O’Brien, TLC member, T-Boz Watkins dished on everything that’s going on in her life during the past couple of months. In the interview, T-Boz talked about the upcoming TLC tour, what it’s going to be like touring without Left Eye and more.

“It’s like a bittersweet situation.. But she’s on like big screens like in here, and we’re rocking together, and it’s fun. She’s not there, but she is there”, said T-Boz.

The songstress turned reality star obviously touched on her new reality show, Totally T-Boz and possible plans of TLC collaborating with Drake. A TLC track featuring Drake?? Now that’s something we’d pay to hear. Check out T-Boz’ full interview below.

The post T-Boz Talks TLC Tour, Reality Show and Possible TLC x Drake Collaboration (Video Inside) first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

“Girls” star and creator Lena Dunham has raised the eyebrows of many with her ad endorsing President Obama.

The endorsement video, released Thursday, features Dunham discussing her first time voting in support for Obama, which many say has an undertone of sexuality. Titled “Your First Time,” Dunham speaks to the camera and says: “The first time shouldn’t be with just anybody. You want to do it with a great guy. Someone who really cares about and understands women. You want to do it with a guy who brought the troops out of Iraq,” she says. “You don’t want a guy who says, ‘Oh hey, I’m at the library studying,’ when really he’s out not signing the Lilly Ledbetter act,” she adds, referring to legislation signed into law by President Obama.

She goes on to say “Or thinks that gay people should never have beautiful, complicated weddings like the kind we see on Bravo or TLC all the time,” she continues. “Think about how you want to spend those four years,” Dunham says. “In college age time, that’s 150 years.”

Dunham says the video is meant to get young voters interested in voting. Speaking in the video, she discusses various issues, including the war in Iraq and Afghanistan, and equal pay for women. She would later take to twitter to answers critics who complained about the ad. .

“The video may be light,” she wrote, “but the message is serious: vote for women’s rights,” wrote Dunham.

Check it out and tell us what you think in the comment section below?

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The post “Girls” Creator Lisa Dunham Draws Anger With Her “First Time” Ad For @BarackObama first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

Reporting by: Dennis Byron

Update: Judge Bensonetta Tipton Lane steps down in the Raymond v. Raymond Case. Click here to read the story.

Update: Attorney John Mayoue responds to Attorney Lisa West’s Motion for New Trial in Raymond case. Click here to read full story.

Update: Tameka Raymond files a Motion for New Trial & Motion for Recusal of Judge Bensonetta Lane. Click here to read full story.

In a surprise decision, Judge Bensonetta Tipton Lane of Fulton County Superior court in Atlanta made a controversial ruling that will forever effect the children of Tameka Foster Raymond and Usher Raymond, IV. A trial that began on May 1st and lasted for several months had all the hallmarks of a daytime soap opera with both parties accusing the other of being a bad parent. There were many witnesses who testified in the case and no one ever provided proof that Tameka Raymond was unfit to be a primary parent for the children however the judge in this case decided otherwise which brings into question whether or not there was some type of outside influence that aided her in the decision. In our upcoming five part series, we will examine the handling of the case as well as all the witnesses that testified and what could have been there motivation to speak.

What is more astounding about this case is that prior to the judge’s ruling, singer Usher Raymond allegedly contacted his ex-wife and confidently asked her “how does it feel to have lost your children?” How did Usher Raymond know he won the case when the judge had not issued a decision yet? Why did judge Lane issue a preliminary ruling in the case 48 hours before she issued the final ruling? Why didn’t she seal her findings of law in her initial ruling but sealed it in the final ruling which if revealed would show the many contradictions in her decision? Did Usher Raymond’s money have more influence in the trial than the law? We are not accusing the judge of anything illegal however there were many points that came out in the trial that would have clearly made other judges render a different decision.

UPDATE: Here is clarification regarding the decision in which the judge ordered singer Usher Raymond to reinstate Tameka Foster’s Sak’s Fifth Avenue card. The Sak’s card is only a discount card that can only be used to purchase items at a reduced rate. The card is NOT A CREDIT CARD as some media outlets have widely reported. The judge stated in her ruling that the card was part of Usher & Tameka’s settlement agreement during their divorce and Usher was in contempt for removing her name off the card. Tameka is required to pay for all her purchases when using this card and the only reason she is using the card is to receive discount purchases for her styling business which essentially would alleviate her having to pay additional fees that she could use for the children.

For over a year-and-a-half, the custody case between mega-superstar Usher Raymond and his widely-vilified former wife, Tameka Foster Raymond, has been litigated.  Despite continuous rumors and reports that the parties had settled or were near settlement, the case was tried before a judge over a three-month period, ending on Thursday.

This case is a journalist’s gift: it is salacious and chock full of all of the ingredients that make a great soap opera – – drugs, sex, money, corruption, manipulation, greed, deceit, betrayal, fame, fortune, stalkers, death, grief, and courtroom drama. I have followed this case very closely from its inception, reading every published online and in print article, viewing every video news report published, studying the court records, attending every court hearing, interviewing various witnesses and persons with first-hand knowledge, conducting legal research on the applicable rules and laws, and even surveying the public opinions espoused in the online blogs and chat rooms about this case.

I initially intended to publish a celebrity journalistic piece about the juicy details of this case of which the average reader was unaware.  But, as I delved deep into my research of the facts and the legal issues involved, I quickly realized it was much more important for me to write an investigative news feature and review.  The reason?  The results of this custody case will not only affect Usher and Tameka, but could also affect every other parent in Georgia.

How It Was:  Custody of the

Children in Raymond v. Raymond (Part I)

In Georgia, there are two types of custody involved whenever couples with children are divorcing: physical custody and legal custody.  Physical custody is exactly what it sounds like.  It is the physical possession of the child or children.  Legal custody is the possession of the ability to legally represent the child’s or children’s interests.  For instance, a person who does not have legal custody of their child cannot grant consent to any medical care for the child or cannot authorize their child to enroll in any school or government program.  In cases involving joint physical and joint legal custody, it is imperative that the parents have the ability to cooperate and communicate effectively with one another sans animosity or acrimony that can affect co-parenting.

When Usher and Tameka divorced in October 2009, they entered into a settlement agreement regarding the custody of their children, two-year-old Usher V, and one-year-old Naviyd Ely.  Usher and Tameka agreed to share physical custody of the children, equally splitting the holidays but with Usher having the children twelve days per month and Tameka having the children eighteen days per the month.  Usher’s monthly days are not pre-determined: he simply has to give Tameka forty-eight hours notice whenever he wanted to exercise his custodial time with the children.

The custody agreement between Usher and Tameka also dictated that the person who did not have physical custody of the children at the time would be given telephone access to the children daily.  The agreement further stated that, if either person wished to take the children out of the state of Georgia, he or she would first obtain the other person’s permission and, if permission was granted, notify the other person of the travel itinerary and location of the children while out of the state.  On August 20th 2012, Judge Lane held the singer in contempt of court for violating this provision.

In addition to sharing physical custody, Usher and Tameka also agreed to share legal custody of the children.  Although they would share legal custody, Usher and Tameka agree to Usher having final decision-making authority over any disagreements involving the children’s education, religion, medical care and extra-curricular activities.

How It Is:  Custody of the Children  Under Usher’s and Tameka’s Current Agreement

Both Usher and Tameka agree that the current joint custody arrangement is not working – – but, for different reasons.  Usher filed a petition to modify the current custody arrangement against Tameka on January 4, 2011, seeking sole physical and sole legal custody of the children.  Nearly eleven months later, Tameka also filed a petition to modify the current custody arrangement.  In her petition, she is not seeking sole custody of the children; she instead is seeking to obtain primary physical custody and final decision-making. authority on all disputed issues regarding the children.

1.         Usher’s Claims

In his petition and/or throughout this case, Usher (through his attorneys John Mayoue and Ivory Brown) has claimed that Tameka is a bad mother and should lose custody of the children.  He has repeatedly stated that Tameka is “crazy” and more interested in being a celebrity than in parenting her children.  Usher claims that Tameka’s mental instability, her volatile nature and her unfettered desire to be in the limelight have prevented her from being present and fostering a bond with the children.  He further claims that Tameka consistently and repeatedly leaves the children with virtual strangers.

According to Usher, Tameka is unfit.

Usher, maintains that, in contrast, he has developed a strong paternal bond with the children, one that almost mimics a maternal attachment.  He acknowledges that he has a busy schedule, but contends that, if he is not performing or engaged in some aspect of his career, he is caring for the children.  Usher contends that, because of the demonstrated care he has shown the children, he should have sole legal custody of them.

2.         Tameka’s Claims

In her petition and/or throughout this case, Tameka (through her attorneys Lisa West and Hensen Grover) has claimed that Usher is absent much of the time and therefore cannot effectively co-parent the children as was contemplated at the time of their divorce.  Tameka does not contend that Usher is a bad father, but claims that his lifestyle as an entertainer is not conducive for rearing three- and four-year-old children, and that the children’s exposure to his life on the road is and will be detrimental to their health, safety and welfare.  (Almost immediately after filing her petition, Tameka filed a request that the judge order Usher to submit to drug testing.)  Tameka further claims that Usher’s priorities do not lie with his children but with his career.  According to Tameka, Usher would rather be the biggest pop star in the world with groupies than be a father to their children.

Tameka maintains that, in contrast to Usher, she has been a stable caretaker and provider for their two children.  She states that she and their children have a close and loving bond that cannot be mimicked or duplicated by Usher or anyone else.  Tameka further claims that she does not frequently travel away from Atlanta because of her children and is committed to providing them with as normal a life as possible. It is Tameka’s position that, for these reasons, the children should live with her primarily.

How They Want It To Be:  What UsherWants the Court to Do About Custody,

What Tameka Wants the Court to Do About Custody

This case was tried for several days in May and continued to completion last week.  As is protocol in the judicial system, Usher, the plaintiff, presented his case first to the judge, followed by Tameka, the defendant.  Usher took nearly nine days to present his case; Tameka took two.  Both of them presented witnesses and documents in support of their claims.

1.         What Was Revealed During Usher’s Case

Usher presented the testimony of five witnesses.

The first witness, Dr. Barrie Alexander, was the psychologist that the judge had appointed to conduct psychological evaluations of both Usher and Tameka.  Prior to the psychologist’s testimony, Usher’s attorneys asked to confer with the judge and with Tameka’s attorneys outside the audible presence of the public.  After conferring, the judge issued an order barring the public and the media from the courtroom.  Thus, I did not observe the testimony of this witness. See video of media being booted from courtroom.

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Usher’s second witness was Daniel Bloom, the guardian ad litem appointed by the judge.  A guardian ad litem is a person who is appointed by the judge to represent the interests of the children in a custody action.  The guardian ad litem is obligated to conduct a thorough investigation of any significant issues raised in a custody action that may have an affect on the best interests of the children.  This usually requires the guardian ad litem to talk to the children’s teachers, caregivers, doctors, and to review any documents pertaining to the children’s welfare.  At the conclusion of his or her investigation, the guardian ad litem is expected to recommend which person he or she believes should awarded custody of the children.

The guardian ad litem in this case recommended that Usher be granted custody of the children.  Upon hearing this, my first thought was, “It’s a done deal.  Why is Tameka wasting the judge’s time fighting this?”  But, when Tameka’s attorney, Lisa West, began cross-examining the guardian ad litem, I understood.

Under cross-examination, the guardian ad litem testified that that there appeared to be a loving bond between Tameka and the children and that Tameka was affectionate with the children and they with her.  The guardian ad litem admitted that Usher had not given him his tour or appearance schedule, despite the guardian ad litem’s request for the information, and admitted that he had no idea how long Usher was or would be away from Atlanta in pursuit of his career.

Under further cross-examination, the guardian ad litem admitted not knowing that Usher had acknowledged that he also resided in New York and was present in Atlanta only part of the time.  The guardian ad litem further admitted that Usher had not given him his nannies’ timesheets so that the guardian ad litem could determine how much time the children were being cared for by Usher’s nannies.  The non-consideration of these fundamental facts by the guardian ad litem was simply inexplicable.  But, the most disturbing aspect of the guardian ad litem’s testimony was his statement that he recommended that Usher be granted custody of the children because Usher is able to provide a support system of nannies and other caretakers for the children and because Tameka has negative interactions with people. I was astounded.

Usher also presented the testimony of Jacqueline Martin, a recent short-term nanny of Tameka’s.  Ms. Martin appeared to be no more than nineteen or twenty years old.  Ms. Martin testified that, unbeknownst to Tameka, she had begun conversing with Usher about Tameka’s parenting and had even visited Usher at his home.  Although she testified that Tameka appeared to spend little time with her children, Ms. Martin admitted on cross-examination that she only worked for Tameka a few hours a day for a few months.  Ms. Martin further admitted that she had in fact complained to the guardian ad litem about Usher’s parenting effects on the children just two months earlier.  It was clear to me that Ms. Martin was enamored with Usher and gave testimony she believed would be pleasing to him.

Usher also presented the testimony of Katie Benson, another former short-term nanny of Tameka’s.  Ms. Benson appeared to be in her late twenties or early thirties and possessed much more courtroom-appropriate attire and demeanor than did Ms. Martin.  Ms. Benson testified that Tameka was stressed and overwhelmed and did not appear to have much time to parent.   Ms. Benson, like Ms. Martin, worked for Tameka a few hours a day for a few months.  Ms. Benson was a credible witness; however, her short-time exposure to Tameka rendered her testimony inapplicable to Tameka’s parenting skills as a whole.

Linda Brock-White was another witness presented by Usher.  Ms. Brock-White was a “bombshell” witness – – not because of her testimony, but because of her status.  Ms. Brock-White is the godmother to Tameka’s children, Kile (who recently passed) and Ryan, from Tameka’s first husband, Ryan Glover.  Not ten days prior to taking the stand, Ms. Brock-White had returned from a respite island vacation taken with Tameka and her children to mourn Kile’s passing.  On direct examination, she testified that Tameka was terrible mother who never spent time with her children and expected everyone else to care for her children.  She also testified that Tameka was bossy and treated people poorly.  Ms. Brock-White further testified that she and Tameka had not had any type of argument or disagreement that would motivate her to testify against Tameka.  But, on cross-examination, Ms. Brock-White admitted that she and Tameka had in fact argued while on the recent vacation and that the argument had caused Ms. Brock-White to depart early from the island.  Ms. Brock-White also stated that Tameka was not entitled to mourn for her son who had been buried six days prior to the respite vacation.  I believe that it was at that instance that Ms. Brock-White lost all credibility.

2.         What Was Revealed During Tameka’s Case

Tameka presented the testimony of four witnesses.

Tameka’s long-time marriage and individual therapist, Sola Winley, testified on her behalf.  Although Usher’s attorney vehemently objected to Mr. Winley’s testimony, Mr. Winley testified that, in his opinion, Tameka did not have any type of mental disorder but that she occasionally suffered from stress-induced anxiety.  Mr. Winley also testified that Tameka’s anxiety in the past had usually been brought on by the actions of Usher, such as when she found out that he had had an affair with one of her bridesmaids.  Mr. Winley testified that he had recommended that Tameka take medication for a short period of time to help her cope with the anxiety and stress, but that Tameka had refused due to her overall reluctance to take any types of drugs.  Mr. Winley also testified that Tameka frequently talked about her children throughout his treatment of her over the years and appeared to be a very caring and conscientious mother.  Mr. Winley’s testimony was compelling.

Tameka’s best friend, DeeDee Abur Rahim, also testified on her behalf.  Ms. Rahim testified that she had known Tameka for over twenty years and that she had personally witnessed Tameka’s parenting skills over that time.  Ms. Rahim testified that Tameka was affectionate and close to all of her children and that she had never witnessed Tameka being abusive or neglectful to any of her children.  Ms. Rahim became emotional when she testified about how Usher had mistreated Tameka throughout the years and how Tameka had suffered because of it.  Ms. Rahim’s testimony was credible.

Tameka also presented the testimony of Portia Williams, her long-term nanny and baby-sitter.  Ms. Williams testified that she had been Tameka’s nanny for her other children, Ryan and Kile, and also for Tameka’s youngest children, Usher and Naviyd.  Ms. Williams testified that Tameka was a very loving parent who spent a great deal of time with her children.  She testified that the children were very attached to their mother, both literally and figuratively, as the children were often wrapped around one of Tameka’s legs at any given point in time.  Ms. Williams further testified that Usher rarely called to speak to the children when Ms. Williams was present.  Her most poignant testimony was her recitation of a time when she took “Baby Usher” to be with Usher in Miami while Tameka was pregnant with Naviyd.  Ms. Williams testified that she stayed in a separate hotel room with Baby Usher and that Usher came to see his son only once for a fifteen-minute period while the child was sleeping.  (Ms. Williams is purportedly the nanny who discovered Usher in bed with one of Tameka’s bridesmaids).  Ms. Williams was indeed a credible witness.

Tameka’s sister, Yolanda Moore, also testified on Tameka’s behalf.  Ms. Moore testified that Tameka loves her children and that the children love Tameka and always want to be with her.  She further testified that Tameka spends time with all of her children, but, on cross-examination, acknowledged that she might have once said, “Tameka needs to stop having these damn kids if she isn’t going to spend time with them.”  Ms. Moore then testified that Usher once prevented her from assisting Tameka with picking up the children from school and that she did not understand why he would have a problem with her picking up the children given that she was the children’s aunt.  Ms. Moore’s testimony regarding Usher’s treatment of his mother was the most memorable.  She testified that she had heard Usher curse at his mother before and believed that Usher did not speak to his mother in a respectful manner.  She further testified that she had witnessed Usher intentionally ramming his car into his mother’s car (while his mother was seated within) in a fit of rage.  Ms. Moore was a credible witness.

Tameka testified.  Her testimony was compelling, straight-forward and direct.  Describing her children’s personalities, Tameka testified that she loves her children and spends as much time as she can with them.  She also testified that Usher, who has the responsibility of paying her nannies, would frequently refuse to pay them causing the nannies to quit and that he used his access to her nannies to obtain information about Tameka.  Tameka also testified that it is very difficult to co-parent with Usher given that he is hardly ever in Atlanta and given that he mostly ignores her attempts to communicate about issues concerning the children.  Tameka testified that she did not believe their young children should live on the road with Usher because his lifestyle on the road consisted of drugs, sex and other vices.  She stated that she wanted her children to have as normal a life as possible and that Usher was the world-famous entertainer, not their children.

Tameka further testified about the altercation she had with Usher’s girlfriend, indicating that Usher had brought the girlfriend to Tameka’s house in an effort to incite Tameka.  Although she was not evasive like Usher, Tameka was often combative with Usher’s attorney.  When asked about her feelings, Tameka explained that she was frustrated and angry at being in court and that she had “begged” Usher to drop his case against her so they could work the issues out.  She testified that Usher has refused.  Tameka asked the court to increase her child support from $8,000 per month to $11,000 per month based on the increased expenses surrounding the children’s needs.

3.         What Was Not Widely Revealed By the National Media About This Case

             Because there was simply too much to report, or because there was the motivated desire not to report, the media failed to reveal a multitude of important facts about the trial of this case.  These facts, I believe, are critical to the determination of a fair resolution of this case, both in the court of justice and in the court of public opinion.

During the near entirety of his testimony, Usher was visibly receiving cues through head nods or shakes and too-long objections from his attorneys, including his now-infamous crying bout.

b.         The guardian ad litem in this case  is typically sought to be a guardian ad litem by attorneys representing fathers because of his history of rendering recommendations in favor of fathers.

c.         The guardian ad litem’s services in this case were paid for by Usher.

d.         The psychologist in this case is typically sought to be a psychologist by attorneys representing fathers because of her history of rendering recommendations in favor of fathers in her capacity as a custody evaluator.

e.         The psychologist’s services in this case were paid for by Usher.

f.          The psychologist’s report was not favorable to Usher.

g.         Because of what was contained in the psychologist’s report against him, Usher sought to oust the media and the public from the courtroom during the psychologist’s testimony.  Tameka did not seek to prevent the public from hearing what was in the report.

h.         Usher’s attorney, John Mayoue, may have held a position of trust with the re-election campaign of the judge in this case.

i.          Usher and his attorney, Ivory Brown, may be involved in a personal relationship. (unsubstantiated however celebrity bloggers Sandrarose.com & Michelle Brown of Straightfromthea.com has also reported about this).

j.          Many news outlets that had carried daily coverage of the trial suddenly ceased to do so during the presentation of Tameka’s case.

k.         On Friday, less than twenty-four hours after the closing arguments in the case, Usher called Tameka and bragged about winning the case.  “How does it feel to lose custody of your children?” Usher taunted.  “One day, I will tell my boys that they once had a mother,” he told Tameka. Usher did not know that Tameka was apparently recording his statements.

 How It Will Be:  What Will Happen if

Usher Wins Custody?

 In Georgia, there exists no legal authority allowing a court to grant sole or even primary physical custody of children to an absentee parent based upon the fact that the parent can afford to pay for a childcare support system for the children.  If Usher wins sole custody of his children, this case will be the first.  It will set a precedent, which means that it will establish a rule of law that all other cases must follow.  And, that rule of law would state that a person who claims to reside in Georgia can simply buy or purchase custody of his or her children.  And, inversely, a person in Georgia could lose custody of his or her children if he or she is unable to buy or purchase a childcare support system designed to be a surrogate caretaker.  Such a rule, of course, sounds preposterous, but it is exactly the effect of a ruling in Usher’s favor on his custody petition.

God help us all.

Update: TMZ is reporting:

Usher just got bitch-slapped in court — a judge has ordered him to REOPEN his ex-wife’s Saks Fifth Avenue credit card in his name … after the singer closed the account last year.

The closed Saks card was just one of Tameka Raymond‘s many grievances in her ongoing custody fight against Usher — and now, the court has taken her side … holding the singer in contempt for pulling the plug on her fancy charge account.

Tameka claims she needs the account to do her job as a stylist.

As for the other grievances — Tameka said Usher owed her cash for the nanny bill … and continually failed to keep her in the loop about where and when he traveled with the kids.

The court agreed … and awarded Tameka $1,300 for the nanny.

While the judge in this case has not ruled on Usher Raymond’s request to gain sole custody of the children, her order has set the tone for what can be expected. She found the singer in willful violation of Tameka’s claim as it related to the handling of the children’s travel arrangements and the language in the order is very telling .

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The post Update Exclusive: Raymond v. Raymond: How a Decision in this Custody Case Will Affect You! (Judge’s Final Order Revealed) first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

Because we love our readers and the holiday season so much, we’ve put together our Top 5 Hip Hop Christmas songs for you to play at the family gatherings, while you’re finishing up shopping, etc. Now of course, there are more than just 5 dope Hip Hop songs for the holidays, but we had to narrow it down, and these are the five that made the cut. Check out the list below to see if your fave Hip Hop Christmas song made it!

5. Jim Jones – “Dipset X-mas Time”

Who knew Jim Jones made a whole Christmas album?? Well, he did and “Dipset Christmas Time” starts off our list with Jimmy rapping about all the expensive gifts he gets his wifey during the holidays. Not too sentimental, and not to jingle bell-y either, so this one should help keep you sane around the in-laws while still feeling the Christmas spirit.

4. Quad City DJ’s – “What You Want for Christmas”

Bust out your best Bankhead bounce and tootsie roll for this Southern classic. The 69 Boyz kept the booty popping and bass going even through the holidays.  What you gone get that girl for Chri-muhhh?!?

3. TLC – Sleigh Ride

Even though this is technically R&B, it’s one of our favorite Christmas songs here at HHE, and with Lisa “Left-Eye” Lopez spitting her usual giddy lyrics, we felt it could be on a Hip Hop list!

2. Snoop Dogg – Santa Claus Goes Straight to the Ghetto

Back before Snoop Dogg was the family man and household name that he is today, he still got us in the holiday spirit with “Santa Goes Straight to the Ghetto” featuring the late Nate Dogg. No other Christmas song makes you want to ride around the streets of SoCal in your low rider throwing out gifts more than this song does.

1. Run DMC – Christmas in Hollis

There’s not much we have to say about this track. Made back in the 80’s before some of our readers were even born, yet it’s still a holiday classic! You should’ve already known this one was gonna top the list.

Got any fave holiday Hip Hop songs you feel should’ve made the cut. Let us know! Tweet or a leave a comment. Happy Holidays from Hip Hop Enquirer!

Follow us on Twitter: @HipHopEnqMag

The post Tis’ the Season.. HHE’s Top 5 Holiday Hip Hop Songs!! first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

TLC member and former wife of rapper Mack 10 Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins, is using her celebrity status wisely to bring awareness to an issue very near to her— bone marrow donations.

T-Boz recently released a PSA in light of African-American Bone Marrow Awareness month to shed some light on bone marrow donation organizations like Be the Match.

“Champions rise up, champions overcome,” she says. “We need more champions in the African-American community, people to step up and donate marrow. It’s the key to taking on diseases like leukemia and sickle-cell anemia.”

Being a sufferer of sickle-cell anemia, which is an illness predominant in the African-American community that stems from the development of irregularly shaped red blood cells produced by bone marrow, this issue is very important to Watkins.

She is also a spokesperson for the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America.

Source: AP

The post T-Boz Brings Awareness to Bone Marrow Donations first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.

Justin requested the help of a few of his powerhouse friends to perform for this special occaision. Taylor Swift, Alicia Keys, Ciara, Timberland were also among the acts who performed for a worthy cause. Taylor Swift, Alicia Keys, Ciara, Timberland were also among the acts who performed for a worthy cause. Chilli & Tboz performed some of their greatest hits while the Jumbotron played videos of the entire TLC group which included former band member Lisa “Lefteye” Lopes. The girls revealed to MTV news that they were about to get back into the studio and record some new songs for their upcoming album.

Chilli has been very active lately appearing on a national campaign for Dasani water to starring in her own VH1 reality show where she is supposedly looking for a boyfriend. After seeing her and boxing great Floyd “Money” Mayweather at a recent political fundrasing event in Atlanta for Mayoral hopeful Kasim Reed, I doubt very seriously if she has to look too hard for a boyfriend. Check out exclusive footage from the concert below.

The post T Boz and Chilli Makes A Comeback first appeared on Hip Hop Enquirer Magazine, LLC.